top of page
Writer's pictureLauren Inman

Understanding the Impact of ADHD on Personal Finances (And What to Do About It)

Are you one of the many who have stumbled upon the ADHD side of TikTok? While it can be relatable and informative, it's essential to remember that not all content on the platform is factual, and it's no substitute for seeing a doctor. However, if you're looking to educate yourself more about ADHD and the impact it can have on your finances, this blog post is for you.



What is ADHD?


Let's break it down: ADHD, short for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a neurodevelopmental condition that can affect people of all ages. Contrary to popular belief, it's not just about being unable to pay attention; it's more about difficulties in regulating attention. Since its effect is far beyond attention alone this has major impacts on an individual’s life.


Living with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is no easy feat. It affects not just your attention span but can also wreak havoc on your personal finances. From impulsive spending to disorganization, ADHD can throw a wrench in your money matters. No need to worry! In this blog post, we'll dive into how ADHD can impact your finances and share some easy tips to tackle these challenges head-on.


Tips and Tricks to Manage Your Finances

Person struggling with impulsive spending

Impulsive Spending:

Do You Really Need It?

Picture this: you're out shopping, and suddenly, you're drawn to that shiny new trinket or trendy fashion item. It's easy to get caught up in the moment and splurge impulsively when you have ADHD. But these spontaneous purchases can drain your bank account, rack up credit card debt, and make long-term financial goals seem like a distant dream.

Tip: Reign in impulsive spending best by creating a budget, waiting a minimum of 72 hours before making big purchases, and seeking guidance from financial professionals. Taking control of your spending habits will help you stay on track and avoid unnecessary financial stress.

A person shopping away with disregard to bills

Disorganization of Money:

Where Did It All Go?


If you have ADHD, staying organized can feel like a never-ending battle. From misplacing bills to forgetting due dates, disorganization can lead to late payments, penalties, and headaches. Losing track of important financial documents only adds to the chaos.

Tip: Technology to the rescue! Embrace digital tools like online banking, bill payment apps, and calendar reminders to keep your financial obligations in order. By leveraging these resources and establishing routines, you can wave goodbye to late fees and restore some much-needed order to your financial life. Remember to be careful about enrolling into auto payments as it's easy to lose track of all your expenses.

A person struggling to stay on task

Navigating Income Instability with ADHD: How Can You Overcome It?


Finding stable employment can be rough when you have ADHD. Concentration issues, time management challenges, and difficulty prioritizing tasks can lead to inconsistent job performance, frequent job changes, or even unemployment. This can have a negative impact on your income and overall financial security.


Tip: Open a dialogue with your employer about your needs, explore workplace accommodations, and discover time management techniques that work for you. This can look like time blocking by setting alarms on how long you work on something, turning off your phone notifications to not be distracted, color coding all your work so it's more enticing, and even taking walks on breaks to keep your mind sharp.


When it comes to career choices, aim for roles that align with your strengths and interests. Check out ADDitude Magazine for some recommendations on ADHD-friendly jobs! And don't forget to leverage organizational tools and strategies to enhance your productivity and improve your chances of keeping that steady paycheck.

Two people planning ahead using digital means

Financial Planning Fumbles: Do You Have Goals on The Backburner?


Thinking about long-term financial planning and setting goals can feel overwhelming when you have ADHD. Staying focused and organized long enough to develop and execute financial strategies, like retirement planning or saving for major life events, can be a real challenge.


Tip: Break down those big financial goals into bite-sized, manageable tasks. Visual aids, reminders on your phone, and seeking advice from financial planners or trusted friends can provide the structure and accountability you need. Remember, it's okay to adjust your goals along the way to adapt to changing circumstances or priorities.

Conclusion

Managing finances with ADHD can be a real challenge, but it's not a lost cause. By acknowledging the difficulties, being proactive about money management, and adopting practical strategies, you can take back control and regain financial stability. Don't let ADHD hold you back from achieving your financial goals - you've got this!


Check out the video below featuring Alexandra Shaw, as she shares valuable personal advice on managing finances while living with ADHD. Get ready to discover more tips and insights that can help you navigate the challenges and improve your financial well-being. Click play to watch now!






Recent Posts

See All

Comments


bottom of page